MARCY, NY — Law enforcement in upstate New York has arrested Jeremy Kirch, 45, in connection with the death of Elizabeth Gerling, a 50-year-old elementary school principal who was found strangled in her home earlier this week. Gerling, the daughter of a retired U.S. bankruptcy judge, was discovered in her bed around 10 a.m. on Tuesday by deputies from the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office.
Gerling, who served as the principal of Columbus Elementary School, was found at her Birch Circle residence, and authorities quickly deemed the circumstances surrounding her death as suspicious.
The investigation soon focused on Kirch, identified as Gerling’s boyfriend, who was reportedly at the residence the night before her death and into the early morning hours. Following the discovery of Gerling’s body, Kirch came to the attention of the Rome Police Department. He was subsequently taken to Rome Memorial Hospital for an evaluation before being taken into custody by the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the charges Kirch may face, as the investigation continues. The tragic death of Elizabeth Gerling has sent shockwaves through the Marcy community and the school where she served as a beloved principal.
